NEWS FROM THE CoR
The European Committee of the Regions was excited to host the kick-off meeting of the newly launched an interinstitutional job shadowing programme extended to other EU institutions (Council, Commission, Court of Auditors, Data Protection Supervisor, EuSA, Ombudsman, CoR, ERCEA, REA and HaDEA). Over 350 colleagues from 10 different EU institutions, bodies and agencies have already expressed interest to take part!
Working together across EU institutions & bodies to better tune in instruments in the EU orchestra!
Exciting and much needed collective endeavour!
More on the CoR Intranet page.
WAGING WAR - PREPARING FOR PEACE
Ukraine’s counter-offensive is gathering pace
Despite the collapse of Ukraine's Nova Kakhovka dam, the Ukrainian counteroffensive is gathering pace, displaying the nation's resilience and determination. The Ukrainian forces are pushing forward with renewed vigor, aiming to regain control of the lost territories and defend their sovereignty. This development underscores Ukraine's commitment to defending its borders and highlights the unwavering spirit of its armed forces.
According to The Economist, the first indications of a new phase in the offensive came on June 4th and 5th, when Ukrainian units advanced towards Velyka Novosilka and into Novodonetske, south-west of Donetsk city, which is held by Russia. But what is clear is that Ukraine is probing not only there, but across the entirety of a front that spans more than 1,000km. Taken together these military developments show that, after weeks of preparatory missile strikes and other activity, the counter-offensive is bringing about a new and more aggressive phase of fighting, one that is highly likely to intensify in the days ahead.
POLITICO has also pointed out that these recent attacks appear to represent the prelude to a full-scale action that is yet to begin. Moreover, it has also stressed that, so far, there has been no convincing evidence offered so far to suggest that the dozen brigades trained and kitted out by NATO for the counteroffensive have been used in these recent assaults or deployed in force on the battlefield.
In the meantime, as EU Observer reports, the EU is trying to put China on the spot regarding its partnership with Russia, setting weapon supply to Moscow as a red line.
Courtesy of The Economist
MULTILINGUALISM IN BELGIUM: ENGLISH AS A NEW OFFICIAL LANGUAGE?
The debate — a recurring one in Brussels politics — over the importance given to English in the European capital was resuscitated earlier this week after the Flemish center-right party Open VLD advanced a proposal to use English in administrative procedures.
The debate within the European Union regarding whether Hungary should assume the EU Presidency, given concerns about its violations of human rights and democratic principles, does not seem to be subsiding. Critics argue that granting Hungary the presidency could undermine the EU's commitment to upholding fundamental values and may send a conflicting message to member states and the international community.
SOCIAL JUSTICE
The EU is currently addressing and attempting to accommodate protests for more social justice by engaging in dialogue with protesters and civil society organizations.
TRADE POLICY & EXTERNAL ACTION
The EU has been making efforts to conclude the EU-Mercosur agreement, aiming to establish a comprehensive trade deal with the Latin American bloc. However, concerns have been raised regarding environmental issues and sustainability, which have become significant factors in the negotiations.
For its part, Latin America has expressed its ambition to build a political relationship among equals with Europe, seeking a partnership that goes beyond trade and encompasses cooperation on political, social, and cultural aspects. This aspiration reflects the region's desire for a more balanced and comprehensive engagement with Europe, fostering mutual understanding and collaboration on various shared challenges and opportunities.
THE ENVIRONMENT
Clean power keeps smashing record after record!
HEALTH
THE GLOBAL BATTLE TO LEAD ON AI REGULATION
While EU top digital officials are battling over who’s in charge of AI governance, Sunak's UK tries to take the lead on Artificial Intelligence.
WELCOMING the Brussels Urban Summit!
From 12-15 June 2023, political leaders, policymakers and civil society actors from 300 cities around the world will come together at the Brussels Urban Summit. The ambition is to bolster cities’ standing as major players on the international stage.
Then summit is co-organised by Eurocities in tandem with the Brussels-Capital Region, the Metropolis urban network and the OECD Champion Mayors for Inclusive Growth Initiative.
DIGITAL LABOUR PLATFORMS & SOCIAL PROTECTION
The business model of digital labor platforms typically revolves around connecting individuals or organizations in need of specific tasks or services with a network of freelancers or independent contractors who can fulfill those tasks remotely. These platforms act as intermediaries, facilitating the matching of supply and demand.
The growth of the gig and platform economy in recent years has created new markets for businesses and income-generating opportunities for workers, but it has also brought to the forefront issues related to social protection for platform workers.
THE MUTUAL INTERACTION BETWEEM MISOGINY & LANGUAGE
The mutual interaction between misogyny and language is a perpetuating cycle where language both reflects and reinforces misogynistic attitudes and beliefs. The use of derogatory terms, sexist language, and gendered slurs contributes to the normalization and perpetuation of misogyny in society.
THE TIKTOK DILEMMA
The decision by several European capitals to block TikTok's use for government services reflects concerns over data security and potential risks associated with the platform. However, this stands in contrast to the popularity of TikTok among young people who enjoy its creative and entertaining content, highlighting a generational divide in attitudes towards the platform.
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